Denver Rising Part 33: New Affordable Properties In 2024

FreshLo Hub

12444 East Albrook Drive, Denver

Income Restrictions: 7 units at 30%, 17 units at 50%, 55 units at 60%, and 18 units at 70% of area median income.

Located in the heart of the Montbello neighborhood, just half a mile north of I-70, the Montbello Organizing Committee has launched the first phase of its community-led and community-owned inaugural affordable housing development, FreshLo Hub. Phase I introduces modern, affordable housing with direct access to public transit - a bus stop sits just north of the property, and the Peoria RTD station, only a mile south, provides direct connections to Aurora and downtown Denver.

Building on this foundation, Phase II of the development promises even greater accessibility to essential services, with plans to include an on-site grocery store, cultural arts education center, and a business incubator. These additions will offer residents unparalleled access to services and dynamic opportunities right at their doorstep.

FreshLo features a range of thoughtfully designed amenities to support residents’ well-being and sense of community. An on-site mental health center, operated by WellPower, provides essential support services, while a fitness room features free weights, cardio equipment, and cable machines. Residents can also enjoy a multipurpose room and an outdoor patio featuring areas to play, eat, and connect – including a children’s play structure, multiple grills, a fire table, garden beds, and plenty of outdoor seating.

With a wide range of one, two, and three-bedroom floorplans, residents have the flexibility to find a space that enhances functionality to best suit their lifestyle, whether they need a small space for independent living or a larger layout with room for the whole family. Kitchens are outfitted with modern conveniences including a microwave, dishwasher, and in most units, a kitchen island - perfect for meal prep and family dinners. Most units feature a private balcony and in-unit washer and dryer, while select apartments also include walk-in closets for added
storage.

To simplify living expenses, all utilities are included in the rent, ensuring a seamless and affordable experience for residents. Managed by Ross Envolve Management, FreshLo sets a new standard for vibrant, community-focused living in Montbello.

Mosaic Community Campus

7150 Montview Boulevard, Denver

Income Restrictions: 16 units at 30%, 19 units at 50%, and 119 units at 60% of area median income.

Archway Housing welcomed its first residents in September of 2024 to their newest development, Mosaic Community Campus. The Mosaic Community Campus is an adaptive reuse project, transforming four historic dormitory buildings into a vibrant 154-unit income-restricted apartment community. Thoughtfully designed to preserve the site’s architectural heritage and expansive green spaces, the reimagined campus offers a unique blend of history, community, and modern living. With a prime location near Central Park and the Stanley Marketplace, residents can enjoy the best of city living while being part of a vibrant, supportive community.

The campus offers an array of amenities designed to foster connection and engagement. Residents can gather with friends in one of the multiple community centers or kitchens, or challenge neighbors in the game room, at the central quad, or on the disc golf course. With on-site laundry and storage, supportive services, and elevators, every detail is designed for convenience and comfort.

Because of the nature of the adaptive reuse project, each unit varies in layout and size with more than 50 floor plans to choose from. Each unit features a fully equipped kitchen complete with stainless steel appliances including a dishwasher and microwave, LVT flooring throughout, and keyless unit entry. All utilities, including trash services, are included in the rents.

Peoria Crossing II

3150 North Peoria Street, Aurora

Income Restrictions: 8 units at 30%, 6 units at 40%, 20 units at 50%, and 38 units at 60% of area median income. All 30% and 40% AMI units have project-based vouchers.

Peoria Crossing II builds on the success of Peoria Crossing I, an 82-unit development completed in 2019. Located within a half mile of RTD’s A Line at Peoria Station and the R Line at Fitzsimons, Aurora Housing Authority’s latest owner-managed project provides transit-oriented living with modern design and amenities.

The community incorporates a variety of floorplans to ensure a perfect fit for households of all sizes. Select units feature kitchen islands, providing ample space for home chefs to perfect their culinary skills, complemented by black appliances including a refrigerator, microwave, range, and dishwasher. Each unit also offers the convenience of an in-unit washer and dryer, 9’ ceilings, LVT flooring, and cozy carpeted bedrooms. All utilities, including trash services, are included in the rents.

Thoughtfully designed amenities that enhance both convenience and community living are at the heart of this building. Residents can enjoy the community room, ideal for hosting gatherings or connecting with neighbors, as well as beautifully landscaped grounds with gardens, seating areas, and a playground for all ages. For those who prefer alternative transportation, secured and covered bicycle parking is available. Enhanced security features, including secure building access, an on-site leasing office, and package lockers, ensure peace of mind and convenient package delivery. 

The Aurora Housing Authority (AHA) is an active developer committed to providing quality housing while fostering economic opportunities that promote self-sufficiency and independence. AHA owns and manages more than 1,100 rental units and has developed seven communities, adding 483 units since 2012.

AHA has continued its mission with expansion efforts. This summer, they will break ground on Sanctuary on Potomac, a first-of-its-kind project featuring 43 units with project-based vouchers and a comprehensive range of support services. Meanwhile, Stanley 98, a 75-unit community, is currently under development, with plans to apply for tax credits in 2025.

Northfield Flats

4545 North Xenia Street, Denver

Income Restrictions: 38 units at 30%, 5 units at 50%, 49 units at 60%, 6 units at 70%, and 31 units at 80% of area median income.

Ralston Gardens

5772 Garrison Street, Arvada

Income Restrictions: 8 units at 30%, 15 units at 40%, 16 units at 50%, 32 units at 60%, and 31 units at 70% of area median income.

Since its inception in 2011, Mile HighDevelopment has been a key player in the affordable housing market. The developer reached a major milestone in December 2024 with the addition of Northfield Flats and Ralston Gardens, bringing their total completed communities to 10.

Location and accessibility played a key role in the design of both communities, providing residents with easy access to shopping, dining, entertainment, and employment opportunities. Northfield Flats, adjacent to the Shops at Northfield, offers a variety of retail
and dining opportunities, while Ralston Gardens sits in the heart of Arvada’s 'Ralston Valley' redevelopment area, steps from grocery stores, local businesses, and public transit. These prime locations enhance both convenience and economic opportunity, making them ideal for
workforce housing.

Both communities feature controlled entry, four-story midrise buildings with modern designs and essential amenities, including bicycle storage, community rooms for gatherings,
and well-appointed fitness centers.

Inside, the apartments offer spacious, modern living with high-end touches. Open layouts maximize natural light, creating inviting spaces for entertaining. Kitchens are equipped with stainless steel appliances, including a dishwasher and microwave, stone countertops, tile backsplash, and kitchen islands in all but the one-bedroom units at Northfield Flats. The 3-bedroom homes elevate comfort with dual vanities and walk-in closets in the primary bedrooms. For the ultimate convenience, all apartments include an in-unit washer and dryer, and rent covers all utilities, including trash services.

Both communities are professionally managed by ComCap Asset Management.